Kaiseraugst (Switzerland), Heerlen (Netherlands)—dsm-firmenich has announced Peach+ as its 12th annual “Flavor of the Year” for 2024. This decision follows Pantone's selection of 13-1023 Peach as the 2024 Color of the Year.
For more than 20 years, dsm and firmenich have observed the landscape of culinary, fashion, hair and beauty, among other categories, taking note of trends and innovations. This year, dsm-firmenich considered emerging signals in the cultural and consumer landscape, noting that trends in kindness, community, goodness, and comfort are increasingly relevant.
“Now in its 12th year, the announcement of the Flavor of the Year is an eagerly anticipated event,” said Maurizio Clementi, EVP Taste for Taste, Texture & Health, dsm-firmenich. “The delicate and natural qualities of Peach+ call for diverse applications across multiple food and beverage industries, and we are excited to see the innovations of our clients upon receiving this news.”
The yearly announcement of the “Flavor of the Year” is an opportunity for customers to engage in the newly designated flavor, adding it to their formulas and creations, the company said. It's time for innovation: dsm-firmenich is encouraging customers to go beyond the traditional sweet notes of peach, and look at its other elements: the softer, smoother, and lighter, more refreshing, textural elements.
The science of Peach+
Jeffery Richard Schmoyer, VP of Human Insights for Taste, Texture & Health at dsm-firmenich, revealed highlights of the research conducted for Peach+. “Our research reveals that peach has many multifaceted meanings,” said Schmoyer. “And peach is incredibly emotional. While the peach has a long history, it also has an innovative future.”
A proprietary study, Emotions 360, conducted by dsm-firmenich looked at emotions associated with ingredients. The experts note that “the peach is somewhat unique in that it has many innate qualities that contrast, such as being both indulgent and pampering, but also refreshing and revitalizing, and youthful, but nostalgic.”
Peach Flavoring on the Rise
The demand for peach flavoring has seen an uptick in products like carbonated drinks, nectars, candies, ready-to-drink teas, flavored alcoholic drinks, yogurt, and more. Additionally, pairing peach with other flavors like mango, apricot, and regular tea, has been gaining popularity.
’’Flavor of the Year showcases emerging trends in flavor through proactive sensory experiences and creations, and completes its mission year after year, which is to empower our customers to be leaders in global trends,” said Mikel Cirkus, Global Creative Director for Taste, Texture & Health at dsm-firmenich. The company identifies countless possibilities to put the Plus in Peach for 2024, and confidently envisions how customers can lead with these emerging trends to ultimately create products with high impact and superior business relevancy.
